Trump envoy seeks to replace Iran with Italy in upcoming World Cup, FT reports
Trump envoy seeks to replace Iran with Italy in upcoming World Cup, FT reports
ReutersWed, April 22, 2026 at 9:19 PM UTC
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FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - World Cup Playoff Tournament and European Playoff draws - FIFA Headquarters, Zurich, Switzerland- November 20, 2025 General view outside the headquarters REUTERS/Denis Balibouse/File Photo
April 22 (Reuters) - A top envoy to President Donald Trump has asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup, The Financial Times reported on Wednesday.
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"I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA president Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I'm an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion," U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the FT.
(Reporting by Carlos Méndez in Mexico City)
Source: “AOL Sports”
